Former Heads of State, General Ibrahim Babangida and General Abdulsalami Abubakar, have commended the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for his dedication, expertise, and visionary leadership, while also praising the Nigerian Army for sustaining high standards of professionalism and operational excellence.
The commendations were given during courtesy visits by the COAS to the two elder statesmen, as well as to the Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umaru Bago.
Both General Babangida and General Abubakar congratulated Lieutenant General Shaibu on his assumption of office and offered prayers for wisdom, courage, and continued success as he leads the Nigerian Army in addressing contemporary security challenges confronting the nation.
In his remarks, the COAS outlined ongoing initiatives by the Nigerian Army aimed at strengthening training, doctrine, and operational readiness across all formations. He briefed the former leaders and the Niger State Government on various exercises currently being conducted within Army training institutions to ensure personnel receive practical, mission-oriented training.
According to him, the exercises also serve to evaluate the operational posture of combat units, identify capability gaps, and determine the need for additional troop deployments or the establishment of new formations where necessary.
Emphasising the strategic importance of Niger State, given its vast landmass and security relevance, Lieutenant General Shaibu noted that the Army is consolidating available resources and leveraging technology to effectively address emerging security threats.
“Niger State holds a special place in our history. I have previously served here as a Training and Doctrine Commander, and many of my colleagues also share a deep connection with this state. In many respects, it is regarded as home,” he stated.
The COAS further disclosed that he conducted operational visits to the 31st, 11th, and 18th Brigades in Bida to assess operational gaps and ensure the provision of necessary resources to curb recent security challenges in the state.
Representing Governor Bago, the Deputy Governor of Niger State, Dr Yakubu Garba, welcomed the COAS and commended the Nigerian Army for its proactive support in addressing security concerns within the state. He outlined ongoing security challenges and expressed confidence that sustained collaboration with the Army would restore peace and stability.
“We are confident that, with the partnership of the Nigerian Army, we will overcome current challenges and safeguard lives and communities,” he said.
In a signed press statement, the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, noted that the visits underscore the Nigerian Army’s commitment to operational excellence, strengthened collaboration with government authorities, and the protection of Nigeria’s national security interests.
